ML-1 project reaches key milestone with second market consultation

KARACHI: Pakistan Railways has completed the second preliminary market consultation for the Karachi-Rohri section of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) upgrade project.

This is another significant step towards implementing the country’s major railway modernisation programme.

The consultation, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), was attended by 134 representatives of national and international contractors, consultants, equipment suppliers, and manufacturers.

The Karachi-Rohri section is a priority component of the ML-1 upgrade. It is meant to modernise railway infrastructure and improve safety, operational efficiency, capacity and reliability of rail services.

The consultation provided an opportunity for industry participants to offer views and recommendations on technical, administrative and procurement-related aspects of the proposed project.

Pakistan Railways said the feedback would help refine the procurement strategy and strengthen preparations for the implementation phase.

The government has been expediting preparations for the ML-1 project, which is regarded as a key initiative for upgrading Pakistan’s rail network and improving the efficiency of freight and passenger services.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026